Using Qualitative and Quantitative Methods To Inform Evidence-based Practice Paper

Using Qualitative and Quantitative Methods To Inform Evidence-based Practice Paper

Qualitative and quantitative research methods provide the gold standards for nursing research endeavors by enabling researchers to investigate interrelationships and interplays between variables that form the basis of investigating clinical issues. Researchers perceive the two approaches as opposing paradigms despite their importance in informing nursing research activities (Borgstede & Scholz, 2021). In essence, the enduring absence of a common methodological approach to establish a common ground for qualitative and quantitative research methods challenges researchers to consider integrating mixed-methods research (MMR). Regnault et al. (2018) define MMR as a research paradigm that enables investigators to collect and analyze data, integrate the findings, and draw inferences using qualitative and quantitative methods (s) in a single study. Amidst the feasibility of applying mixed methods research (MMR), it is essential to assess its usability in transforming nursing research and investigating issues of clinical significance.

Qualitative vs. Quantitative Research

Before expounding on the entry of MMR in clinical research, it is essential to discuss the significant differences between qualitative and quantitative research methods that necessitate the need for a third-way paradigm. According to Borgstede & Scholz (2021), the major difference between qualitative and quantitative research approaches is the nature of measuring research variables, whereas qualitative approaches emphasize non-numerical data and the construction of abstract knowledge that forms the basis of nursing theories. For example, qualitative methods such as structured interviews, observation, focus groups, and ethnographic research can only investigate participants’ feelings, levels of satisfaction, and experiences toward specific topics or interventions.

Conversely, quantitative research methods like experimental studies, randomized clinical trials, quasi-experimental, and correlational approaches seek to achieve valid mathematical presentations of differences or correlations between research variables (Borgstede & Scholz, 2021). It is essential to note that the perception of applying research methods that reveal perceptions, opinions, and feelings of participants while still presenting the numerical significance of differences or interrelationships between variables encourages researchers to embrace mixed-methods research as a way of capitalizing on the advantages of qualitative and quantitative research methods.

Combining Qualitative and Quantitative Research Methods in Investigating a Health Concern

An example of a health topic where mixed-methods research can be effective in assessing the effectiveness of various approaches for improving the health of patients with dementia. Researchers can use qualitative research methods such as one-on-one interviews and qualitative observation and focus on identifying patient perceptions, feelings, and opinions regarding interventions like cognitive therapy and mindfulness-based therapy. On the other hand, it is possible to use quantitative research approaches such as experimental studies and trials to investigate the effectiveness of these strategies for improving the health of dementia patients. At this point, researchers can examine differences between intervention groups and control groups before and after implementing an intervention. The data obtained through quantitative research approaches can reveal the statistical significance of differences and correlations between variables that manifest when delivering care to patients with dementia.

Undoubtedly, combining qualitative and quantitative research methods in a single study can result in multiple benefits. According to Dawadi et al. (2021), MMR allows researchers to widen their inquiry by ensuring a detailed meaning of a phenomenon under investigation, as well as allowing for the establishment of the data of statistical significance. Secondly, combining the two research paradigms can produce greater certainty and expand the research conclusion’s implication (Dawadi et al.., 2021). Finally, incorporating MMR in nursing research enables investigators to overcome the underlying epistemological variations in quantitative and qualitative research paradigms. As a result, it can enhance knowledge and address weaknesses prevalent in quantitative and qualitative research methods.

Consequently, it is essential to conclude that mixed-methods research (MMR) offers profound opportunities for capitalizing on the advantages of qualitative and quantitative research approaches and neutralizing their weaknesses. This consideration validates the perception that MMR can improve the study’s generalizability and enhance the validity of research endeavors.

References

Borgstede, M., & Scholz, M. (2021). Quantitative and qualitative approaches to generalization and replication–a representationalist view. Frontiers in Psychology, 12. NCBI. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2021.605191

Dawadi, S., Shrestha, S., & Giri, R. A. (2021). Mixed-Methods research: A discussion on its types, challenges, and criticisms. Journal of Practical Studies in Education, 2(2), 25–36. https://doi.org/10.46809/jpse.v2i2.20

Regnault, A., Willgoss, T., & Barbic, S. (2018). Towards the use of mixed methods inquiry as best practice in health outcomes research. Journal of Patient-Reported Outcomes, 2(1). NCBI. https://doi.org/10.1186/s41687-018-0043-8

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Week 11: Initial Posts
Discussion: Using Qualitative and Quantitative Methods to Inform Evidence-Based Practice
Chronic pain affects millions of Americans. Diagnosing, treating, and understanding chronic pain creates many challenges for healthcare. Is the challenge on how to properly diagnose and manage a patient’s pain? Or is the challenge on whether or not to prescribe pain medications given the concerns with addiction as a result of the opioid epidemic?

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Consider the questions posed above. How might the use of qualitative and quantitative methods serve to provide answers for researchers regarding the challenges associated with chronic pain? What can qualitative data provide that quantitative data cannot, and vice versa? How might a mixed methods approach fill in the gaps to provide a clearer understanding of the problem and potential solutions?
For this Discussion, reflect on an issue or problem in healthcare that may benefit from a mixed methods approach. Think about the differences between qualitative and quantitative research methods and designs, as well as how these two methods might work well together. Consider how a mixed methods approach supports evidence-based practice.
To Prepare:
• Review the Learning Resources for this week and consider the differences between qualitative and quantitative research designs and methods.
• Consider an example of a topic or issue in nursing in which both qualitative and quantitative research approaches might be necessary,
• Reflect on how a mixed methods approach lends itself to evidence-based practice.
By Day 3 of Week 11
Post an explanation of when it might be most useful to use both qualitative and quantitative approaches or mixed methods to support a research design. Be specific and provide examples. Then, explain whether a combination of qualitative and quantitative approaches is used in systematic reviews to support evidence-based practice. Be specific.

This is a discussion post; two pages is sufficient. Details and example.

Problem: Dementia or a problem in healthcare they may benefit from mix methods approach.